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Sample Essays for the Writing Section of the TOEFL® Test

Did you hear about the updated TOEFL iBT Writing section?

On July 26, 2023, ETS introduced  a new TOEFL Writing question : Writing for an Academic Discussion.

That’s right. The Independent Writing question has been retired from the official TOEFL iBT test.

Before we get into the topics and sample essays for the new TOEFL Writing question, let’s start with the first task, which hasn’t changed, the Integrated Writing.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Topics

In the TOEFL Writing Section, there are two questions you must respond to. The first question is called the TOEFL Integrated Writing task. The second question is called the TOEFL Writing for an Academic Discussion task.

The integrated question presents a reading and listening passage, followed by a question, which is a bit more complicated.

Simple, right?

No? Still confused.

No worries. The best way to understand something better is through examples.

Let’s do one together.

This TOEFL integrated writing topic deals with the use of Corn Ethanol.

Give yourself three minutes to read it:

The chemical compound, ethanol, has risen in recent years as the most viable alternative to fossil fuels. Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from crops, mainly from corn in the United States, which can power engines. There are many who argue that corn ethanol should replace fossil fuel gas as the primary source for running cars.

One major benefit of using corn ethanol is that it uses less energy than gasoline. Using less energy means that people can get better gas mileage while driving these more fuel-efficient cars. In the long-run, this will be cheaper for consumers because they can drive further than they do now with fossil-fueled cars. People will spend less money on gas because they won’t have to stop to fill up as frequently.

Another advantage of switching to corn ethanol is that it helps the American economy become less reliant on energy sources from other countries. Petroleum is not readily available in the U.S., so it must be imported from other countries. Depending on foreign relations with those countries, fuel becomes a political issue. Corn is a crop that America has in abundance. By using corn ethanol instead, the cost of gas will decrease because now the import taxes on fossil fuels are calculated into the price. This also means that we will be putting the money into our own economy, thus helping local corn farmers.

One of the most attractive aspects of corn ethanol is how environmentally friendly is when compared to current automobile gasoline. Fossil fuels release carbon that has been stored for years from the earth. Burning biofuels, like corn ethanol, is better for the environment because it releases less greenhouse gas emissions. Lessening the amount of carbon emissions will help prevent global warming and all of the other negative effects of climate change.

Once three minutes have ended, listen to a conversation about the same topic

Now, it’s time to write your TOEFL essay.

Stop reading.

Start writing.

Write your essay before you look at this TOEFL Writing sample. You will learn a lot more if you actually write the essay and then compare this to your own.

Here’s an expert TOEFL teacher’s sample essay to this particular TOEFL Writing topic.

The article introduces the topic of corn-based ethanol. More specifically, the writer discusses the advantages of switching from fossil fuels to this alternative energy source. The lecturer in the listening passage disagrees. He believes that the benefits the author mentions are misleading and attacks each of the claims made in the reading.

In the reading, the author begins by stating that drivers will get better gas mileage on corn ethanol than on fossil fuels, and therefore save money on gas. The speaker, however, disagrees. He states that the production of corn ethanol is very expensive. He says that in order to make for the costs to create and distribute this biofuel, the price of ethanol gas will increase.  Therefore, it will not be any cheaper for consumers in the long run.

The writer also claims that making the switch to corn ethanol will help the American economy because it will make the United States less dependent on foreign oil. Again, the lecturer believes there are flaws in the writer’s argument. He holds instead that mass use of corn-based ethanol will hurt the economy. He elaborates this by point out that the inevitable competition for corn by multiple consumers, including beef and dairy farmers, will drive the price of corn up.

Another reason why the author feels that moving from traditional gasoline to corn ethanol is a good idea is that they are more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels. The professor in the listening passage is doubtful that this is accurate. He suggests that as more farmlands are created to support the demands for more corn, more carbon will be absorbed by the land. This means that these emissions will still be released to negatively affect the environment.

As you can see the author and speaker hold very different views about the use of corn ethanol.

The author here clearly defined the main idea, organized the supporting points from both the reading and listening passage, and showed how they differ from each other. 

I know it may seem a bit difficult, which is why I recommend that you start off with a TOEFL Writing template for both the Writing for an Academic Discussion task and Integrated essay.

Writing for an Academic Discussion Question

You will have 10 minutes to complete the  Writing for an Academic Discussion question .

For this task, you will participate in an online discussion. After you read the question and student responses, you will have to write a response that adds to the conversation.

Here’s the breakdown:

This question is straightforward, but let’s do a sample together.

When the question appears on the screen, take two minutes to scan the passage and the student’s opinions.

Start to write your response. Be sure to add to the discussion and avoid repeating the same points as the other students.

Aim to write at least 120 words.

Get peace of mind with these TOEFL Writing Templates

Now that you have a few TOEFL Writing topics and sample essays to study from, you may want to use a writing template to help guide your writing.

A TOEFL template is basically a pre-organized set of words and phrases that you can use in almost any TOEFL Writing response.

Here’s TST Prep’s template for the integrated TOEFL Writing question (question one):

And here’s our template for the independent TOEFL Writing for an Academic Discussion (question two):

The article introduces the topic of (general topic) . More specifically, the writer discusses (stance of the author on the topic) . The lecturer in the listening passage disagrees. He believes that (stance of the professor on the topic) and attacks each of the claims made in the reading.

In the reading, the author begins by stating that (first point made to support stance) . The lecturer, however, disagrees. He states that (first counterargument by the professor) . He goes on to say that (additional detail about first counterargument) .

The author also claims that (second point made to support stance) . Again, the lecturer believes there are flaws in the writer’s argument. The speaker holds that (two sentences about the professor’s second counter-argument) .

Another reason why the author feels that (restate stance of author) is that (third point made to support stance) . The professor in the listening passage is doubtful that this is accurate. He suggests that (two sentences about the professor’s third counter argument) .

To sum up, both the writer and professor hold conflicting views about (general topic) . It’s clear that they will have trouble finding common ground on this issue.

You will notice that the sample essays in this article differ from the templates.

You do not have to use templates, it’s up to you. Some people prefer to write in their own unique fashion for the entire exam. However, you will notice that the structure of the templates is similar to the TOEFL example essays.

These templates follow the exact organization and structure you are expected to use on test day, so don’t hesitate to use them in your writing.

Also, don’t forget to download the free  24+ TOEFL Writing Guide   if you would like more example essays, templates, and exclusive tips to help you earn the best possible TOEFL Writing score on test day.

If you read this far, it means you are serious about your TOEFL studies. Don’t hesitate to send us an email and let us know how we can help you earn the TOEFL score of your dreams – [email protected]

Did we forget anything? Please comment and let us know how we can improve our TOEFL Writing advice (or if you want to just say hi that would be great too).

113 Comments

Hello, Josh. Firstly, thanks for the useful tips. I wonder if I can get a point if I don’t understand the lecture but write everything about reading. Should every idea in the passage and audio be matched?

Hi Ella, Thanks for your question. In general, the listening points should correspond with the reading. This is because the listening usually argues the opposite points.

Hi, Josh. I have a question about copying and pasting in TOEFL writing. I heard some TOEFL teachers say it should be avoided because ETS will consider it a potential form of plagiarism in future academic study.

Could you please provide some suggestions in terms of this issue? Is it ok to copy and paste, since it saves a lot of time in writing, especially on the test day. Thank you!

Great question. The copy-and-paste feature will not work at the test center, and I do not believe it works on the Home Edition either. Regardless, copying and pasting or manually copying the exact words should be avoided. You are always better off putting the answer into your own words.

Abdul Siyar Azizi

Hello Josh, I have a question regarding how we can write an advanced writing that will be scored 25+?

Thanks very much for your question. We do have some templates that can help to increase your score. However, to give you a more detailed answer, I would suggest you consider doing an essay evaluation with us so we can help you determine specific areas for improvement. In the meantime, here are some articles that can help.

https://tstprep.com/articles/toefl/ten-awesome-tips-for-the-writing-section-of-the-toefl-test/

https://tstprep.com/articles/toefl/sample-essays-for-the-writing-section-of-the-toefl-test/

Hi Josh! For the academic writing, I only gave my reason for the topic, and I forgot to mention the opinion of the other student. I checked my word count. It is already past 100 words, and I do not want it to be too long. Do we really need to mention the other students’ opinion?

Hi Ireen. Great question! We often suggest mentioning one of the other students, but it is not required. As long as what you said was on topic, you “added to the discussion,” and gave specific reasons and examples, you should be okay with the 100 words you wrote.

Hello, I have a question about the independent writing: Is it a problem if I just give one reason in my essay (but detailed enough)? Thank you

Hi there and thank you for your question. There are no specific grading criteria that say you MUST give two reasons for your opinion, so, in theory, yes, you can just give one reason. I don’t think you will be marked down for it. If possible, try to give two though. It will make your word count higher.

Lobna Helali

Hello Josh, I was wondering if you have more integrated writing questions that we could do for practice, do you know where to find them?

Hi there and thank you for your question. If you search “TOEFL Writing Practice test” on Youtube you will find 2-3 TST Prep practice videos with an Integrated Writing practice question. I’m sure there will be tests from other providers as well.

Hey Josh, I have been following your YouTube channel for my TOEFL preparation, where I learned a lot. My question is that I got stuck between 15-17 scores in the reading section and could not figure out what I would do to enhance my scores. Any suggestions?

Hi there Ashina, and thank you for your question.

It is, indeed, a difficult question to answer. Here are two pieces of advice on how to practice at home and how to improve time management:

HOW TO DO A PASSAGE

I am going to breakdown the process you should go through when you do a TOEFL Reading passage:

1. Copy the test conditions (set a timer to complete the passage and all the questions in 18 minutes)

2. Check your answers

3. Identify the reason you got a specific question wrong (or didn’t understand why you were correct) and write down what you can do to avoid the same mistake next time. Step #3 is the most important and the one often overlooked because most test-takers are pretty tired after reading and answering questions. This will help you notice patterns in incorrect choices and apply what you have learned later.

4. (Optional) Do the same passage again two weeks later. (You will remember much of what you did before, but it should help remind you of what you have learned)

TIME MANAGEMENT

My advice is pretty simple here, practice with LESS TIME. If it is not too stressful, try to complete a passage and all of the questions in 16 minutes (instead of 18). This usually does the trick for most students over time.

I hope you find some of this helpful. Good luck, and let me know if you need anything.

Hey Josh, in the Reading section the last question holds two marks where we are asked to pick three choices. I have always have a hard time getting the perfect score here. any suggestions, please…

Hi Kiba, this is a popular complaint. I posted a video about summary questions here. You might find it helpful.

Hey Josh, I have a question. If the question is saying a good essay is between 200 and 300, and I wrote more than 300, is this okay? Or should I make it only as maximum as they are saying?

Hi Joud and great question. Definitely write MORE. There is a direct correlation between test scores and word count, so the more you write the better. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should write as much as possible as fast as possible, but anything between 350-450 words would be great.

Hey Josh, I think I do well in my writing section, but my score doesn’t improve. Is there anything that I can do to know my mistakes from the ETS?

Hi Aziz, good question, and unfortunately, no, they do not release that information. The best you can do is work with an experienced teacher who can point out your weaknesses and work on them at home before test day.

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The TOEFL Essentials® Test: 8 Things You Need to Know

Guide for the TOEFL® Test Speaking Question 4

TOEFL iBT® Paper Edition: Your Top 10 Questions Answered by ETS®

Taking Notes for the Listening Section of the TOEFL® Test

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TOEFL Writing Practice: Improve Your Writing Skills with Free TOEFL Writing Sample Essays & Lessons

In this guide you can start a free TOEFL writing practice test with sample essays and learn some basic and advanced independent & integrated writing lessons to help improve your writing skills and successfully prepare you for your TOEFL writing test. This page contains everything you need to know and the essential skills for a high writing score.

First off, if you're looking to take a free TOEFL writing practice test or are just curious what taking an official TOEFL writing test is like, then click the START TOEFL writing SAMPLE TEST button below.

Next up is a list of all our TOEFL writing questions where you can study each question at your own pace. To start a free TOEFL writing test question, click the Mock Test 1 link.

TOEFL writing practice questions - integrated writing Task

TOEFL writing practice questions - academic discussion Task

Table Of Contents

Toefl writing introduction, toefl integrated writing task, toefl academic discussion writing task.

• How the TOEFL Writing Section is Scored
• TOEFL Writing Preparation

The writing section is the fourth section of the TOEFL iBT test and takes about 50 minutes to complete. It consists of two separate tasks: an Integrated Writing task and an Academic Discussion Writing task . The Independent task requires you to write an opinionated essay based on your own knowledge and experience, whereas the Integrated task requires you to write a response synthesizing a lecture and a reading passage. Below, we examine the two TOEFL Writing tasks in detail.

When you start the TOEFL Integrated writing task, you will be given 3 minutes to read an academic passage. After reading the passage, you will then listen to a lecture on the same topic. You’ll have a total of 20 minutes to write your response. Your response should be around 150-225 words . During this time, you may reread the passage; however, you may not listen to the lecture again.

The reading passage may or may not have a different point of view from the lecture. There are a total of two different scenarios that you can encounter.

• Contradiction: The lecture contradicts or casts doubt on the key points in the reading passage.
• Supporting with Examples: The lecture supports the key points in the reading passage.

It doesn’t matter which scenario you encounter. Your response must summarize the key points discussed in the lecture and explain how these points relate to the reading.

In this task, taking good notes is critical.

When taking notes for the reading passage, make sure to write down the position or opinion of the author and the main supporting reasons for that position or opinion. In most cases, there will be three main supporting ideas. Note that the reading passage are always presented in a point-by-point fashion. That is, the article begins with a main statement, followed by three paragraphs, each of which gives a main point supporting the main statement.

For the lecture, it’s the same basic idea as the reading passage. The lecture follows the same pattern, with the main points matching up with the main points in the reading passage. In other words, the main points directly support or refute the points made in the article, usually in the same order. You must be aware of this in order to take appropriate notes. One more thing! The lecture might include information that is not related to the reading. Remember this! You don’t need to write irrelevant information down in your notes!

In addition to taking good notes, you’ll need to write at least 5 paragraphs that synthesize the main points of the reading passage and lecture . You should also paraphrase when you write your response. DO NOT copy the exact words from the reading passage or lecture. Your score will suffer, if you do.

Here is the breakdown of your essay structure:

• Introduction

The introductory paragraph should contain the following:

• The main topic of both the reading passage and the lecture
• A paraphrase of the question describing the number of points made that were used to cast doubt on the reading passage.

Each body paragraph should cover one main point from the listening and explain in detail how it relates to the main points in the reading passage.

Finally, the conclusion paragraph should summarize the introductory paragraph ...and yes...you guessed it...you should paraphrase . Do not use the same wording you used in the introduction paragraph.

Now, let’s examine the two scenarios ("Contradiction" and "Supporting with Examples") in more detail. In the following section, we will provide you with TOEFL writing sample questions, sample writing responses, and useful writing templates for each of them.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Task: Scenario 1 - Contradiction

This scenario is the most common scenario. In this scenario, the lecture will contradict or cast doubt on the key points in the reading passage. Here is a TOEFL Integrated Writing Task sample question:

Question: Summarize the points made in the lecture and explain how the speaker casts doubt on specific points made in the reading passage.

As you can see, the main points of the lecture contradict the main points in the reading passage. The passage states that pollution was the cause of the declining population of sea otters, while the lecture states that the predation is the most likely cause of the decrease in sea otter populations. Here is the sample essay:

TOEFL Integrated Writing Template: Scenario 1 - Contradiction

Now, let's look at the writing template for scenario 1 - Contradiction.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Task: Scenario 2 - Supporting with Examples

In this scenario, the main points of the lecture are examples that support the key points in the reading passage. Here is a TOEFL Integrated Writing Task sample question:

Question: Summarize the points in the lecture, being sure to explain how they address the specific concerns for social media described in the reading passage.

To learn how to tackle this scenario, sign up for a 7 day free trial.

When you start the TOEFL academic discussion writing task, you will be asked a question. Your job is to plan and write an essay in response to this question. It’ll help if you understand the different types of writing questions you may encounter. Let’s take a look at them now.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: Agree or Disagree

The first independent question type on our list is “Agree or Disagree“ . An "Agree or Disagree" question will give you a statement of opinion and ask you whether you agree or disagree with the statement. You will also have to provide specific reasons and examples to support your position. Here are examples:

• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? All students should be required to study art and music in secondary school. Use specific reasons to support your answer.
• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? High schools should allow students to study the courses that students want to study. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
• When people succeed, it is because of hard work. Luck has nothing to do with success.” Do you agree or disagree with the quotation above? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: Support or Oppose

This type of question is very similar to the Agree or Disagree question. However, Instead of asking you to agree or disagree with the statement, the “Support or Oppose” question will ask you to support or oppose a situation. Here is an example:

• It has recently been announced that a new restaurant may be built in your neighborhood. Do you support or oppose this plan?

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: Preference

"Preference" questions give you a choice between two options and ask which option you prefer. You must provide specific reasons and examples to explain why you prefer the option you choose. Here are two examples:

• Some people prefer to live in a small town. Others prefer to live in a big city. Which place would you prefer to live in? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
• Some people spend their entire lives in one place. Others move a number of times throughout their lives, looking for a better job, house, community, or even climate. Which do you prefer: staying in one place or moving in search of another place? Use reasons and specific examples to support your opinion.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: If / Imaginary

"If / Imaginary" questions give you a hypothetical – or imagined – situation and ask what you would do or what you would choose. Rather than choosing between two things or two opinions, you are typically not limited in your choice. That is, you can choose anything that fits the situation. Here are three examples:

• Imagine that you are preparing for a trip. You plan to be away from your home for a year. In addition to clothing and personal care items, you can take one additional thing. What would you take and why? Use specific reasons and details to support your choice.
• If you were asked to send one thing representing your country to an international exhibition, what would you choose? Why? Use specific reasons and details to explain your choice.
• If you could invent something new, what product would you develop? Use specific details to explain why this invention is needed.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: Description or Explanation

A "Description or Explanation" question will ask you to describe a certain type of person – especially the good qualities of a person – or explain something in the world. You might have to choose something to explain, or you might be given something specific to explain. You might have to explain why something is beneficial, important, or significant, or you might have to explain the reasons for or effects of something. Here are three examples:

• How do movies and television influence people's behavior.? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Some people say that computers have made life easier and more convenient. Other people say that computers have made life more complex and stressful. What is your opinion? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Neighbors are the people who live near us. In your opinion, what are the qualities of a good neighbor? Use specific details and examples in your answer.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task Type: Compare and Contrast

This is our last question type on our list and is a little tricky. The “Compare and Contrast" Question can be fool you, so you need to pay attention to what it’s really asking. Generally speaking, you will see 2 variations of this type of question.

First, the question might give you two subjects and could ask you to compare and contrast them. That is, to show the similarities and differences between them. However, the question might ask you to compare the advantages and disadvantages of only one subject, so read the question carefully.

Both variations could also ask you to state your personal opinion or your personal preference.

Here are examples of the first variation:

• It has been said, “Not everything that is learned is contained in books.” Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books. In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?
• Some people trust their first impressions about a person’s character because they believe these judgments are generally correct. Other people do not judge a person’s character quickly because they believe first impressions are often wrong. Compare these two attitudes. Which attitude do you agree with? Support your choice with specific examples.
• Some people believe that the best way of learning about life is by listening to the advice of family and friends. Other people believe that the best way of learning about life is through personal experience. Compare the advantages of these two different ways of learning about life. Which do you think is preferable? Use specific examples to support your preference.

Here are examples of the second variation:

• Some young children spend a great amount of their time practicing sports. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• A company has announced that it wishes to build a large factory near your community. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new influence on your community. Do you support or oppose the factory? Explain your position.

So! Can you see the difference between them? When you write a comparison and contrast essay, you need to be aware of what the question is asking. Is it asking for the comparison of two different things or is it asking you to describe advantage and disadvantage of one thing? Okay! Let’s look at the essay structure of both variations.

As you can see, the major difference is how you write your two body paragraphs.

When the question is asking you to compare aspects of two subjects, each body paragraph compares and contrasts two subjects in one aspect.

When the question is asking you to compare pros and cons of one subject, your first body paragraph discusses the advantage and your second body paragraph discusses the disadvantages.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Essay Structure

This 5 paragraph structure approach can be used for 5 out of the 6 essay question types. The “Compare and Contrast” question type is the only essay question that will require a different structure.

How to Write a High-scoring TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Essay

Now, let's learn how to write a good introductory, body, and conclusion paragraph for the TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task.

How to write a high-scoring introductory paragraph - Part 1

How to write a high-scoring introductory paragraph - part 2, how to write a high-scoring body paragraph, how to write a high-scoring conclusion paragraph.

Sign up for a 7 day free trial to access this lesson.

How is the TOEFL Writing Section Scored?

When you complete your TOEFL test, your writing must be evaluated. This is done by a combination of human readers and a computer program called e-rater®. Each of your essays is given a score from 0 to 5. Your combined essay scores are converted to a section score of 0 to 30.

There are four basic criteria on which your essay is evaluated. These four criteria are:

• How well you address the topic .
• How well you develop and support your ideas.
• How well you organize the essay and connect your ideas.
• How well you use the English language , including grammar, vocabulary, and writing conventions.

"Writing conventions" are the special rules of writing in English, including spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.

As for the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task, here are four basic criteria on which your essay is evaluated. These four criteria are:

• How well you select important information from the lecture.
• How well you relate the lecture points to the reading points.
• How well you organize the essay and provide details

How to Prepare for the TOEFL Writing Test

It takes time to develop good writing skills. Chances are a good English writer already has years of experience writing English and using English in their daily life. If you are not a good English writer, do not get frustrated.

The good news is that you only need to be able to write well on TOEFL independent and integrated tasks. Here are a few things we suggest you do in order to complete the TOEFL Writing section in the most effective manner.

• To write well, first you need to read good essays so your brain has a database of good English structures and vocabulary you can use when writing. That being said, we recommend that you read and learn from our sample essays as much as possible. When learning these sample essays, do not just memorize them, but study how a paragraph is formed with different sentence structures, what words are used, and what main ideas are included. Ask yourself “Can I write similar sentence structures?” and “Can I form a sentence with these vocabulary words?”. The more you study, the more your writing skills will improve. The next time you write about a similar topic, you will be able to utilize them in your writing and add your own ideas.
• If you are not a good writer, spend at least an hour a day practicing academic discussion writing and integrated writing tasks.
• Spend some time brainstorming ideas for all academic discussion writing essays.
• Complete our writing lessons to ensure you know what characteristics a high-scoring TOEFL essay should have. In short, the following are key factors in scoring well on the TOEFL Writing section
• Understand the different types of prompts that appear in the academic discussion writing section.
• Write a clear opinion or position on an issue.
• Write a good introduction and a good conclusion paragraph.
• Write 3 main body paragraphs. Each body paragraph should consist of a main idea and specific examples with details that support the main idea.
• Make good use of transition words to connect your ideas.
• Use a variety of words, both common and academic, correctly and appropriately.
• Use a variety of sentence structures correctly and appropriately.
• Master paraphrasing, synthesising, citing, and note-taking skills.
• Utilize all of our writing lessons

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• Free Sample TOEFL Essays

Learning to write well is a skill, like any other. This skill is important not only on your TOEFL exam, but also in your academic and professional career. The TOEFL Writing section consists of two parts:

• Integrated Writing , which includes reading, listening and then writing a summary/ comparison piece of 250 word in 20 minutes
• Independent Writing , which involves writing a four to five-paragraph essay of 300-350 words in 30 minutes

The following free sample TOEFL essays illustrate how to get a high score on the independent writing section of the iBT. By reading through the essays, you can learn how to:

• develop any topic into a well-organized, logical answer
• use synonyms to paraphrase the question
• use a variety of sentence structures & grammatical forms
• begin with a simple, strong introduction
• create body paragraphs that flow logically
• develop unity by linking the body paragraphs
• end with a memorable conclusion

Try to write an essay each day. The added practice will enable you to complete a strong essay, with ease, confidence, and speed, on the day of your TOEFL exam and throughout your life.

• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #1 "Doing Unenjoyable Things"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #2 "Money & Success"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #3 "Studying Abroad"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #4 "Family or Friends More Important?"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #5 "Virtual or Real University"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #6 "Children & Formal Education"
• Free Sample TOEFL Essay #7 "Household Tasks for Children"

1. TOEFL BASICS

Toefl overview.

• TOEFL Exam Details
• Registration
• Administration

TOEFL iBT Format

2. toefl skills, primary skills.

• Reading Skills
• Listening Skills
• Speaking Skills
• Speaking Tips
• Free TOEFL Speaking Samples
• Writing Skills
• TOEFL Writing Topics

Secondary Skills

• Pronunciation

Support Skills

• Summarizing
• Paraphrasing
• Mind Mapping
• Synthesizing

3. TOEFL RESOURCES

Toefl books, in-class training.

• TOEFL Prep Centres
• ESL Schools

Online Training

Studying toefl abroad, 4. attitude, test anxiety.

• Types of Anxiety
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9 Engaging TOEFL Writing Samples to Hone Your Skills

Struggling to weave words that score high on the TOEFL writing section? You’re not alone.

This concise guide laces your preparation with TOEFL writing samples —your key to unlocking eloquence and precision in your test responses.

Excel in crafting essays that resonate with evaluators, using these exemplary models.

1. Capturing the TOEFL Integrated Writing Essence

2. excelling at independent toefl essay writing, 3. where to uncover more toefl writing examples, 4. analyzing toefl writing samples: a review strategy, 5. templates: simplifying the toefl writing process, 6. tips and tricks from toefl writing veterans, 7. mastering toefl integrated writing topics, 8. tackling the toefl independent writing challenges, 9. practicing your writing skills with sample prompts, toefl writing guidelines and evaluation criteria, leveraging writing samples beyond the toefl, conclusion: fine-tuning your toefl writing mastery.

When approaching the intriguing challenge of the TOEFL Integrated Writing task, the essence lies in harmonizing diverse sources of information into one cogent piece. Here’s a closer look at a top-scoring TOEFL writing sample:

• Synchronization of Ideas: The sample excels at integrating concepts from the reading and listening passages. It doesn’t just summarize the points but rather compares, contrasts, and connects them thoughtfully.
• Language Precision: Linguistic accuracy is pivotal. Notice how the writing uses complex sentence structures without compromising clarity.
• Cohesion and Coherence: Seamless transitions maintain the argument’s flow. The use of conjunctions and transitional phrases like “ however ” is artful, ensuring that each paragraph smoothly leads to the next.

By examining this top-scoring example , you can better understand how to create a composite narrative that stands up to stringent assessment.

Shifting gears to the Independent Writing task, this is your chance to shine – your argument, your structure, your voice. A high-scoring independent writing sample charts a path for success:

• Strong Introduction: It opens with a clear thesis statement that sets a compelling direction.
• Logical Development: Each paragraph presents a distinct but connected idea, reinforcing the central argument.
• Rich Examples: Concrete examples ensure your arguments resound with credibility and weight.
• Stylistic Fluency: The sample radiates linguistic finesse, sporting a range of vocabulary without appearing forced.

An effective strategy is to dissect writing samples that have aced the test. Analyze their structure and the techniques they employ in articulating persuasively held viewpoints.

Variety is the spice of language learning, and you’ll find a plethora of TOEFL writing samples online. Sources that could enrich your preparation include:

• Official Test Prep: A treasure trove of authentic material can be found on official TOEFL prep sites, ensuring you’re practicing with examples that accurately reflect the exam standards.
• Educational Platforms: Websites specializing in standardized test preparation often publish high-quality, evaluated samples accompanied by insightful analysis.

Embark on a quest to uncover more writing examples to help you master the art of writing essays that resonate with the TOEFL’s evaluation criteria.

Harness the power of reflection to elevate your writing. As you review TOEFL writing samples, employ strategies that seasoned language educators recommend:

• Organization Scrutiny: Examine how sample essays are structured, and identify the scaffolding of strong introductions, supporting paragraphs, and conclusive endings.
• Contrast and Compare: Zero in on the usage of contrast words, like “ however ,” which signify the writer’s ability to weave nuanced discussions.
• Grammar and Syntax: Pay particular attention to grammatical precision. Sample essays often illustrate complex entities like compound sentences that lead to higher language proficiency without sacrificing accuracy.

Delving into the intricacies of samples will arm you with the know-how to replicate success elements in your own writing endeavors.

Templates: they’re like blueprints for your TOEFL essays, providing a clear outline to follow for both integrated and independent tasks. Consider utilizing templates to:

• Structure your response: Following a template ensures all necessary components are present, making your essay complete and coherent.
• Streamline your writing: With a blueprint at hand, your focus can remain on expressing your ideas rather than worrying about the essay’s format.
• Gain confidence: Having a go-to structure can bolster your writing confidence, knowing you have a tried-and-tested formula backing you up.

For practical templates that can simplify your writing process, you may find the suggestions on TOEFL Resources particularly helpful.

Every athlete has a coach, and every successful TOEFL candidate has a slew of tactics up their sleeve. Here are some insider tips:

• Effective Note-Taking: Learning the art of jotting down quick, useful notes from passages can be a game-changer for your integrated writing task.
• Transitional Phrasings: Using phrases that bridge thoughts and ideas gives your essay a polished, expert feel, much like threading beads on a string.
• Mindful Time Management: Watching the clock is essential. Allocate your writing and review time efficiently to ensure a finished, well-polished submission.

Gleaning advice from those who’ve achieved high scores will provide a wealth of actionable writing tips and strategies to enhance your own performance.

Crafting a stellar response for the TOEFL Integrated Writing task first begins with a keen understanding of the topics you may encounter. While the topics are wide-ranging and sourced from various academic subjects, the primary goal stays constant: to sieve through the given resources and create a unified, coherent critique.

Typical themes could range from business dynamics to environmental policies, all the way to nuances in artistic movements. Here’s how you can prepare for any curveball:

• Stay Informed: Regularly read up on general knowledge subjects. The more informed you are, the more angles you’ll find to approach the integrated writing task.
• Practice Synthesis: Learn to quickly identify key points from reading and listening sources and integrate them using comparative language.
• Develop Critical Thinking: Go beyond surface-level comprehension. Assess the reading and listening material critically to make compelling arguments.

Understand that TOEFL writing samples serve as archetypes—steep yourself in their strategies, yet always be prepared to apply your own intellect to unique topics.

Indeed, TOEFL Independent Writing offers its unique set of challenges. Your opinion is the helmsman, steering the essay’s direction amidst the turbulent tides of ideas and elaboration. What common pitfalls might you face, and how can you triumphantly bypass them? Consider the following:

• Overly Complex Language: Clarity trumps complexity. It’s tempting to use sophisticated language, but if it muddles the clarity of your argument, it’s counterproductive.
• Insufficient Support: An opinion isn’t enough; your statements must be substantiated with relevant examples and explanations.
• Wavering Off-Topic: Remain vigilant in ensuring your essay stays tightly aligned with the assigned topic, resisting the drift into irrelevant tangents.

Nurturing the knack to sidestep these pitfalls comes from immersing yourself in exemplary TOEFL writing that exemplify the balance between complexity and clarity, while anchoring firmly to the topic.

To hone your skills effectively, what could be better than diving headfirst into practice? Find solace in the plethora of TOEFL writing samples and prompts available:

• Brainstorm and Outline: Before free-writing, take a moment to brainstorm and create a structured outline for each prompt.
• Timed Writing Sessions: Simulate test conditions by timing yourself, which will also aid in managing exam anxiety.
• Peer Review: Swap essays with fellow TOEFL hopefuls or use online forums. Fresh eyes on your work can provide valuable feedback.

Equip yourself with a plethora of TOEFL Independent Writing topics to kickstart your focused writing practice sessions.

Grasping the TOEFL writing samples is one part of the journey—understanding how they are evaluated is another mile to tread. What exactly are evaluators looking for in your essay to deem it as high-scoring?

• Focused and Coherent Responses: Your writing should signify clear, purposeful leadership toward a central idea.
• Language Usage : Mastery of English language conventions is vital—the more control you have over your linguistic tools, the finer the craftsmanship of your essay.
• Development and Support : Adequate examples and clear reasoning solidify your arguments, indicating depth in your understanding and expression.

Plunge deeper into the specifics of what makes a TOEFL essay transcend average quality; study the official scoring rubrics thoroughly to see through the lens of an evaluator.

The mastery achieved through dissecting TOEFL writing samples can transcend test day; you’re essentially honing a lifelong skill set. The clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness you labor over for your TOEFL essay are not merely for exam halls:

• Academic Endeavors: Essays, research papers, and dissertations will demand the same structured thought and command over language.
• Professional Aspirations: In the workplace, you’ll find that the ability to clearly articulate information is invaluable, from emails to reports to presentations.

Embrace the practice with TOEFL writing samples as a foundational exercise that fortifies your general English writing proficiency , carving a path of eloquence in both academic and professional landscapes.

Refining your TOEFL writing skills is an ongoing process—a harmonious blend of studying exemplary TOEFL writing samples and diligently practicing what you acquire from each analysis. Imprint upon your mind the ethos that each writing task is not only a testament to your English language abilities but also a stepping stone to greater academic and professional writing prowess.

Revisit the templates, prod the prompts, scrutinize the samples and, most importantly, acquaint yourself with the intricate tapestry of evaluation criteria. With each paragraph you compose, remember that you are knitting together strands of skills that will extend far beyond the TOEFL exam.

Finesse in TOEFL writing is a quiet herald of victories to come, both on your score reports and in the many chapters of your educational and career ambitions that lie ahead.

Toefl writing samples explored: Enhance your test preparation with our collection of model essays and effective writing strategies.

TOEFL Writing Samples, Tips, and Tricks (Task 1 and Task 2)

One of the hardest sections to prep for on the TOEFL can be the TOEFL Writing section. After all, it’s hard to find a native English speaker who will correct and grade your essays in the writing section—and even harder to find one who knows the test! Never fear. In this post, we’ll look at sample high-scoring essays for the first and second tasks and then break down what’s good about them (and how they might improve!)

In this post, I’ll also provide links to several additional TOEFL Writing samples for the Independent Writing task. And there will be two TOEFL Writing samples for the Integrated Writing Task. These sample answers will come with full Writing Task 1 essay questions. Like the Integrated Writing questions on the real TOEFL test, the prompts in this post will include a reading passage and an audio recording of part of a lecture.

Table of Contents

• TOEFL Writing Task 2 Basics
• Model TOEFL Writing Task 2 Essay (Independent)
• Additional TOEFL Task 2 Writing Samples (Independent)

Introduction to TOEFL Writing Task 1

• A Sample TOEFL Integrated Writing Task, with Model Answer
• Where to Find Other TOEFL Integrated (Task 1) Writing Samples

TOEFL Writing Samples: The Takeaway

Starting at the end: writing task 2 model essays.

I’m starting with the second task on the Writing section of the TOEFL exam. Why you may ask? Well, the hypothetical reader that I’m having a conversation with, I’m starting with TOEFL Writing Task 2 by popular demand. Magoosh gets far more requests for Task 2 help than requests for help with Integrated questions. But if you are here for TOEFL Writing Task 1, don’t worry– we’ll get to that first task right after this section on the independent questions.

A Few Quick Tips on Using These TOEFL Writing Task 2 Samples

Remember that TOEFL Writing Task 2 requires you to give a personal opinion on a broad social issue. The TOEFL Writing topics covered in task 2 will likely be ones you’re already familiar with: issues related to things like high school, life in a small town vs. a big city, how governments should support education, dealing with co-workers, etc…. Be prepared for contemporary topics about today’s world as well: social media, cell phones, technological advances, and the like.

A Model TOEFL Writing Task 2 Essay, With Commentary

If you’re doing your own practice, I suggest attempting to answer the prompt yourself under timed conditions; then, compare your essay to the sample essay. As you make that comparison, you can look at the section of the post below the sample essay, in which we break down why this essay works! For our prompts, we’ll be looking at some of Kate’s excellent suggestions in this post on TOEFL writing . Let’s give it a go with the first independent essay topic!

• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Modern life is easier than life in the past.  Use specific details and examples to support your answer.

Sample Essay

I definitely agree that modern life is easier than life in the past. The increased use of technology, rising standards of living, and improved healthcare have combined to make our lifestyles, at least in the first world, luxurious compared to lifestyles of the past. By examining three specific examples—personal computers, The Lion in Winter , and vaccines—this essay will demonstrate that this improvement has, indeed, taken place.

In the first place, technological advances have created new ways to take care of mundane tasks quickly and easily. For example, the majority of Americans now have their own personal computers. This is an amazing advance: with computers, we can complete tasks, from banking to ordering groceries, that would have taken hours even a few decades ago. Word processing is common, making the spread of information much easier to achieve, and education is available to all for free through online courses and information that would have been all but unattainable for many up until the end of the twentieth century. The sheer amount of access that we have to services and knowledge through these machines has made life extraordinarily easier.

Secondly, our standard of life has changed through advances in engineering, architecture, travel, and even textiles. Looking at a film like The Lion in Winter , while by no means historically perfect, does show how even everyday things were more difficult almost a thousand years ago. Set in the 1100s, the film shows King Henry II having to break ice from his water bowl to get water to wash his face—something that hot and cold running taps have long since saved us from. The queen has to travel to see her husband by a long boat journey, which would be almost unthinkable today. Finally, the entire royal family, even though they are royal, is wrapped in encumbering furs. Looking at what was once the highest standard of living, compared to the average first world standard of living today, we can see how much easier progress has made our lives.

Finally, we no longer live in fear of many common diseases that once crippled or maimed large populations, making their lives much harder. For example, polio used to strike many people, in some cases making it difficult for them to walk, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt, who used a wheelchair. The invention of that vaccine in the 1950s, as well as numerous other vaccines, has created a situation in which we no longer have to suffer unnecessarily. This is most certainly an improvement over the past.

In conclusion, life today is definitely easier than life in the past. Though it is easy to read stories of nobles and kings of history and romanticize them, their lives were almost certainly more uncomfortable than our lives are. Nevertheless, there are many places in the world where laptops, modern conveniences, and vaccines are rarely found; I hope that current generations will work together to make life easier for everyone, now that it is possible to do so.

Essay Evaluation

OK, let’s dissect this sample essay. Specifically, we’ll be taking a look at what the author did well and points upon which the author could have improved.

Now, let’s go through a few important points. First of all, remember that the TOEFL essay is scored holistically , meaning that you don’t get a certain number of points off your score (or added on) for the absence or presence of different items. Rather, the scorers grade it against a rubric, seeing which points from the rubric best describe your essay.

First of all, a thesis statement : we want this to be immediate and direct. By immediate, I mean that it should show up within the first few sentences of your essay. Here, the author does this: right away, she writes “I definitely agree that modern life is easier than life in the past.” Remember, we don’t have to be terribly nuanced about this. Sure, you can argue that it’s easier in some ways and harder in others—but you’ll have an easier time just taking one position and sticking to it, as you don’t have a huge amount of time to write this essay! It might be a prettier essay if this author eased into the subject by providing an example or a quote to start with, but this works pretty well in the introduction.

Which leads us to another point… an introduction and a conclusion . This author has them! They’re pretty brief—given more time, it would be nice to have a quick recap of the points she’s made here, but they do exist. This makes the structure easier to understand and helps the scorers to see right away that you understood the task and have addressed it, fully and completely.

Next, the examples. These are of primary importance! The examples here are relatively simple, but we don’t need to reinvent the wheel (so to speak). Notice that this author picks examples from different areas: society, a movie, and history. The FDR example could maybe be fleshed out a little more and elaborated on to make this more specific and slightly stronger, but generally, these examples do make the author’s point.

What about the language ? It’s pretty strong here. The author varies her sentence structure; take a look at the conclusion for an example of this. She uses transition words (“in conclusion”), although these are sometimes simple. Finally, she also shows off her vocabulary (“encumbering,” “romanticize”), demonstrating that she has an advanced grasp of English.

Is this a perfect essay? Not by a long shot. But is it a high-scoring TOEFL essay? You bet.

Additional Task 2 TOEFL Writing Samples

On our blog, we have quite a few other TOEFL Writing samples for the Independent Task. Here’s a roundup of additional models you can look to as you refine your TOEFL Writing skills for the second task and aim for a high score.

• TOEFL Writing Task 2 Question With Model Answer Here, David shows you a TOEFL iBT practice prompt, and a model answer. Then, he breaks down the grammar features of the answer and shows how a good model answer can be revised and made even better with greater grammar variety. Since there is a revised version of the initial response, this post really contains two TOEFL Writing samples.
• TOEFL Writing Task 2: Model Brainstorm, Model Outline, Model Essay This model essay includes examples of how to do prewriting : taking good notes for a good essay. You’ll learn how to brainstorm possible main ideas regarding your opinion on a particular topic. You’ll then learn to narrow down that brainstorming and create an outline that highlights your main point and your supporting key points. Finally, you’ll see how to take the specific points from your outline
• TOEFL Independent Writing: Correcting Disorganized Answers Our blog also offers flawed TOEFL Writing samples like this one. Here you can read a Writing Task 2 model answer that’s a little disorganized, and then complete some activities where you revise and improve the essay yourself.
• TOEFL Independent Essay Mistake: Unsupported Claims Here we have two flawed TOEFL Writing samples that fail to fully support their claims. Each essay is followed by advice on how to improve.
• TOEFL Independent Writing: Examples of Counter-Arguments This article actually contains five different TOEFL Writing samples for Task 1. Each model essay is a slight variation on the others, showing different ways that test-takers can handle counter-arguments in TOEFL Writing Task 2
• TOEFL Writing Task 2: How to Use Transitions in Your Writing To be clear, this link contains zero complete TOEFL Writing samples. However, it does include a model introductory paragraph to a TOEFL Writing Task 2 essay, along with a tutorial on the use of transitions in Independent Writing.
• Magoosh’s TOEFL Writing Templates This guide also focuses on partial TOEFL Writing samples, although it does also have some complete model essays. Our templates give you example transitions, phrases, and other structures that you can memorize and apply to top-scoring TOEFL essays.

TOEFL Integrated Writing prompts can be challenging tasks! In this first part of the TOEFL iBT Writing section, you need to do the following:

• Read a short passage.
• Listen to an audio clip that featues a short lecture related to the passage.
• Summarize the main points of the audio clip as they relate to the key ideas in the passage.

As you can see, this TOEFL Writing essay type is complex, with multiple parts. But have no fear. Magoosh offers sample questions and sample responses for this task as well. We’ll start with the task below, which is taken directly from our premium TOEFL prep service . (The sample essay and answer explanation also come from our premium service!)

A Model TOEFL Integrated Writing Task, With Full Sample Prompt and Commentary

Read the following passage and continue. American literature of the early 20th century saw the rise of a number of influential authors writing in a new style. Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, E.E. Cummings, and Ezra Pound, among many others, left an undeniably deep impact on how we write, even today. The author and poet Gertrude Stein is sometimes included in such lists, but her work is notably less influential than that of her contemporaries. For a number of reasons, critics have often pinned her work as an eccentricity worthy of little more than a historical footnote.

For one, Stein’s works tend to be inaccessible to the reader, primarily because she did not clearly communicate thoughts and emotions in much of her writing. Literary critic Edmund Wilson asserted that Stein’s shortcoming was that she took many of the concepts that underlay Cubism, a style of painting that emphasized visual representation without clear emotion or meaning, and attempted to apply them to language. This resulted in work that relied heavily on the sounds of the words used, rather than on the meanings they held.

Moreover, Stein’s work rarely included conventional punctuation. Her sentences blend together into long, unbroken chains, without commas or periods to signal where one idea ends and another begins. In avoiding punctuation so often, Stein made her prose and poetry unnecessarily difficult to decipher. Few authors have avoided punctuation in the same way because it simply distracts from the writer’s message and adds little value if any.

Certainly, it is easy to be deceived as to Stein’s literary influence by the historical importance of Stein’s salon—regular gatherings in her home frequented by a number of renowned artists. However, in studies of American literature, the work produced by a figure is far more valuable than are their social connections. Although Stein was close with several major authors and artists of the time, that fact alone does not give her real historical significance.

Now, listen to the lecture. Click here to listen .

Once you’ve listened, summarize the points made in the lecture you just heard, explaining how they oppose specific points made in the reading.

TOEFL Independent Writing Task 1 Sample Essay

The professor giving the lecture on Stein disagrees wholeheartedly with the views presented in the text that her class had read. There are a few key points that she calls specifically into question: how well Stein communicated, the refusal to use punctuation, and the importance of Stein’s social connections.

In the first of those three points, the professor presents an argument that contrasts starkly with the text. Whereas the reading says that Stein’s use of cubist aesthetics created inaccessible work—prose that did not communicate to the reader—the professor brings up the possibility of Stein’s impact on later poets. She argues that since Stein’s day, poetry has shifted to rely more heavily on the sounds of words used, rather than their meaning, and that Stein was likely a significant influence on that change.

Furthermore, according to the professor, Stein’s decision to omit punctuation from her work was not merely a way to make her writing more difficult to follow. Instead, Stein elaborates in her own essay on the topic on why she viewed punctuation as unnecessary. The professor is of the opinion that Stein’s view is both valid and unique, one that we should contemplate carefully.

And finally, in her lecture, the professor points out that Stein’s influence on the writers and artists she kept as friends is not to be understated as merely a social connection. Although the text claims that Stein’s “salon” was only of historical significance, rather than literary importance, the speaker says that Stein directly affected the writing style of Hemingway. That provides clear evidence of Stein’s importance in the development of literature at the time.

Explanation of the Sample Essay Above

Where to find other toefl writing samples for toefl integrated writing.

As you’ve seen, TOEFL Integrated Writing tasks include a passage and an audio lecture. Because of this, free TOEFL prompts and TOEFL Writing samples for this task are a bit less common, compared to TOEFL Writing samples for the second writing task.

Still, there are a number of places you can go for free or affordable model essays for the first task in the TOEFL Writing section.

Let’s start with the other free TOEFL Integrated Writing task you can find right here on the blog: the model prompt and essay (with commentary) found in Magoosh’s complete guide to TOEFL Integrated Writing . The model essay there comes with two additional companion posts: a tutorial on paraphrasing in TOEFL Integrated Writing , and a guide to revising your work in TOEFL Writing Task 1 .

Next, let’s look at free TOEFL Writing samples for Task 1 from the most authentic source out there: ETS, the official makers of the TOEFL Exam. ETS includes free Integrated TOEFL Writing samples in their online TOEFL Writing practice sets . And on TOEFL TV, ETS’s YouTube channel for the exam, there is a video tutorial that includes a model Integrated Writing essay .

Note that neither of the two resources above contain complete prompts. The practice sets have transcripts of the lectures, but no audio. And unforntuately, the TOEFL TV video contains only partial audio from the lecture, and no transcript. The good news, however, is that you can find full prompts and full TOEFL Writing samples for Task 1, complete with scorer commentary, in two other ETS resources: The Official Guide to the TOEFL , and Official TOEFL iBT Tests Volume 2 . These resources are not free, but they are available in the ETS TOEFL online store at very afforable prices, either in print or as downloadable eBooks.

As you can see, a variety of high-quality TOEFL Writing samples are available, both from Magoosh and ETS. These model essays can help you understand what to do and what to avoid as you aim for your own top scoring essays.

And again, the very best sample essays come from ETS, as seen in the Official Guide to the TOEFL, volume two of Official TOEFL iBT Tests, and the other official TOEFL Writing prep materials. For links to those materials and other resources that can help you aim for a good TOEFL Writing score, see the TOEFL Writing Scores section of Magoosh’s free guide, “ Let’s Tackle the TOEFL .”

And of course, for a free TOEFL Writing practice test, you can use the prompts from the TOEFL Writing samples in this post. In fact, with two sample prompts for Task 1 and several sample prompts for Task 2, you have two free TOEFL Writing practice tests just from this article.

Want more? Consider a subscription to Magoosh TOEFL . You can even start out with a free trial before you make your final decision, withour even having to enter any payment information.

Above all, remember that TOEFL essays are designed to measure your ability to do real college coursework in countries like the United States. So it helps to review actual college writing as well. To help you with this, we’ve compiled a list of places to find actual university-level essays from real students .

I hope all of this has been useful. Feel free to ask me any questions you have. Just leave a comment!

Rachel is one of Magoosh’s Content Creators. She writes and updates content on our High School and GRE Blogs to ensure students are equipped with the best information during their test prep journey. As a test-prep instructor for more than five years in there different countries, Rachel has helped students around the world prepare for various standardized tests, including the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT, and she is one of the authors of our Magoosh ACT Prep Book . Rachel has a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature from Brown University, an MA in Cinematography from the Université de Paris VII, and a Ph.D. in Film Studies from University College London. For over a decade, Rachel has honed her craft as a fiction and memoir writer and public speaker. Her novel, THE BALLERINAS , is forthcoming in December 2021 from St. Martin’s Press , while her memoir, GRADUATES IN WONDERLAND , co-written with Jessica Pan, was published in 2014 by Penguin Random House. Her work has appeared in over a dozen online and print publications, including Vanity Fair Hollywood. When she isn’t strategically stringing words together at Magoosh, you can find Rachel riding horses or with her nose in a book. Join her on Twitter , Instagram , or Facebook !

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2 responses to “TOEFL Writing Samples, Tips, and Tricks (Task 1 and Task 2)”

Hi, Rachel! The essay is beautiful. But I have a question: In the example part, do you recommend we give examples of big names and big events or personal examples? Thank you so much!

Hi Annie! Any examples are good as long as they’re specific. So, choose the examples that will be easiest for you to talk about 🙂

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TOEFL IBT > Practice Tests > TOEFL Writing Samples: Practice Essay Topic And Questions

TOEFL Writing Samples: Practice Essay Topic And Questions

Are you looking for an efficient TOEFL test preparation guide ? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will be addressing the following key points:

• Know what abilities are going to be assessed during the TOEFL Writing test;
• An overview on the topic and texts you can have to work on;
• Discover what GlobalExam has to offer if you want to train to ace your TOEFL test.

Ready to maximize your chances to successfully pass the TOEFL IBT exam ? Then keep reading!

What Are the Assessed Abilities in the TOEFL Writing Section

The writing part of the official TOEFL test will allow you to assess the level of your written English in an academic context as well as your ability to structure writing in a fluid and synthetic way. You will have to answer questions related to essays talking about various topics for the Integrated Writing Question part of the test. The second part of the test, the Independent Writing Questions, will ask you to give your opinion on a particular subject.

We will be addressing the writing section in this article, however if you wish to get access to more resources, be sure to take a look at our article on TOEFL practice tests and questions for all the sections .

TOEFL Writing Samples: Examples of Topics and Texts

We will be going over some exercises for both types of essays for the TOEFL Writing section. If you wish to train for the other sections, please refer to these articles :

• TOEFL Listening practice questions
• TOEFL Speaking practice questions
• TOEFL Reading practice tests

TOEFL Essay Sample 1 – Integrated Writing Question

You will find various sample essays for the TOEFL integrated writing task. If you wish to train more in-depth, make sure you take TOEFL mock tests regularly to practice for the exam in real conditions.

Sample Text 1: Stonehenge – Glacial Erratics

Several of the rocks which make up Stonehenge, one of England’s most famous historical sites, have been found to come from a nearby quarry in Salisbury, around 25 miles away from the site. These could have been transported by men using sleds or other rudimentary tools. Others, however, have been traced to another location in Wales, almost 200 miles away.

So, how did those rocks, called bluestones, make the long and arduous journey? It is unlikely that the prevailing theory is true; namely, that these bluestones were transported from one location to the other. The technology of the time would have made this back-breaking work, and it is unlikely that they would have gone to so much trouble, when they could simply have used rocks of a different type found closer to the site.

A new and exciting theory is called glacial erratics. This theory states that the rocks were, in fact, transported to the area far earlier by glacial movements during an icier interval in the Earth’s climate, and not instead by a phantom brigade of men.

Such erratics are widely known; we tend to think of the Earth’s climate as calm and tranquil, but on a historical basis, there have been several hundred thousand years where half of the planet was covered in glaciers. These tend to be slow but violent in nature; calmly and methodically carving their way through rock and earth.

Over many thousand years, it’s entirely possible that these glacial erratics transported the requisite materials to the site, thus solving the conundrum of how they came to be used in a field near Salisbury. It might also explain the unfinished-looking nature of Stonehenge itself; the interior part of it looks as though it’s missing a few pieces. Perhaps there were no more bluestones to use.

Question: Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on specific points made in the reading passage.

Sample Text 2:

Supply side economics is an economic theory which states that the best way to run an economy is by lowering taxes and cutting regulations, thereby removing barriers to business and stimulating growth by putting more money into the hands of both businesses and consumers.

While the theory has its detractors, they cannot deny the benefits of this approach. During the 1980s, both Great Britain and the United States pursued this approach with great success. The economies of both countries grew exponentially during this period, and unemployment fell to near record levels.

In the United States, taxes were cut from a high of 50% in the early eighties to nearly 30% in the late eighties, something which caused the GDP of the country to shoot up, and also created the conditions for the economic boom in the nineties. In the UK, too, the cut in taxes stimulated the British economy a great deal. Indeed, in the seventies, the British economy was known as the ‘sick man of Europe’, due to anaemic growth rates and high unemployment.

Many at the time theorised that the United Kingdom was in permanent and possibly terminal decline. With the reduction in taxes, the removal of burdensome regulations on businesses and the corresponding growth caused by these actions, it is fair to say that the country recovered its erstwhile reputation as a good place to do business.

Question: Summarise the main points in the lecture. Be sure to talk about how they cast doubt on the points raised in the text.

Sample Text 3:

In response to rising concerns over the global obesity epidemic, an international health body is lobbying for additional taxation on unhealthy food. Under such a policy, the producers of these junk foods, which typically are nutritionally-low with high fat and sugar content, would have to pay extra in order to sell them in supermarkets or serve them in restaurants. However, opponents believe it will not succeed in making the population healthier for a number of reasons.

Firstly, people should be allowed to eat whatever they like without being punished for their decisions. When people choose to eat unhealthy things, they are aware that these foods are unhealthy but feel that the enjoyment they get from eating it outweighs the long-term health costs. Additional taxation would therefore only prevent people from eating what they enjoy.

Secondly, taxation would increase the price of certain types of food, but this increase would not be enough to affect purchasing behaviour. If a meal or an item at the supermarket were only one or two percent higher in price, it would be unlikely that consumers would even notice the tax. Ultimately it would simply mean these consumers would have less disposable income to spend on a more varied diet.

Lastly, it is not entirely evident that taxing junk food would result in people eating more healthy food. In this view, the problem is not the low price of less healthy food but the high price of healthier options. These would remain the same as before and these are what generally prevent consumers from purchasing them regularly. As a result, this policy does nothing to promote healthier food or cultivate more wholesome eating habits among the population.

TOEFL Essay Sample 2 – Independent Writing Question

Here are some more essay sample questions for the second part of the TOEFL iBT test. However, be sure to practice with TOEFL sample tests on top of these examples to be fully prepared for the test day.

Question 1: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? A mother is more essential to a child’s upbringing than a father. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 2: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The internet has been a good thing for society. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 3: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People who work in public services, such as doctors, nurses and teachers, should earn more money than people who are paid to entertain, like actors and sports stars. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 4: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Countries are becoming increasingly similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world. Use reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 5: Some people prefer going to live music events like festivals to listen to music. Other people prefer to listen to music at home. Which do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice. Question 6: Some people prefer to learn a second language using blending learning which combines online lessons with exercises on a digital platform. Do you think this is a good idea? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 7: A large advertising company is looking for a new location for one of their billboards. They have identified an ideal position, which is clearly visible from a highly frequented central area of town. It happens to be on the side of one of the city’s high-school buildings. Do you think this is a good idea? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer. Question 8: Some people prefer reading news and magazine content online. Other people prefer to read the news in print. Which do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice. Question 9: Some people prefer living in the countryside while others disagree and prefer to live in modern areas of the city. Which option do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Question 10: Some people prefer living in the countryside while others disagree and prefer to live in modern areas of the city. Which option do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

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TOEFL sample essays: Tips and techniques for a high score

The TOEFL exam is a standardised test that measures a non-native English speaker's ability to use and understand English at the university level. One of the components of the TOEFL exam is the writing section, which requires test-takers to write an essay in response to a prompt.

To score well on the writing section, it is essential to understand the requirements of the exam and the characteristics of a high-scoring essay.

In this article, we will explore tips and techniques for writing TOEFL sample essays that will help test-takers achieve a high score.

Table of Contents

Toefl writing section, integrated writing task, independent essay sample, 1. understand the task requirements, 2. plan your essay, 3. use effective paragraph structure, 4. use specific examples, 5. use varied sentence structure, 6. use academic vocabulary, 7. use correct grammar and punctuation.

• TOEFL essay #1
• TOEFL essay #2
• TOEFL essay #3

Frequently asked questions

The TOEFL writing section is a crucial component of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), which measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries. The writing section evaluates a test-taker's ability to write effectively and clearly in academic English.

The TOEFL writing section comprises two tasks: the Independent Writing Task and the Integrated Writing Task. Both tasks assess different aspects of the test-taker's writing abilities, including their ability to express ideas clearly, organise thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills.

Also read: TOEFL Writing Topics

The Integrated Writing Task assesses your ability to comprehend and synthesise information from both a reading passage and a lecture. This section evaluates your ability to use your reading and listening comprehension skills to comprehend the given content and then integrate and organize the information effectively in your writing.

The Integrated Writing Task is composed of two parts: a reading passage and a recorded lecture. The reading passage presents a topic, and the lecture provides additional information on that topic. Both the reading passage and the lecture are related and complement each other. Test-takers must read and listen carefully, as they will be asked to summarise the information presented in both in a written response.

The reading passage is approximately 230-300 words long and usually includes a definition of the topic, background information, and supporting examples. The lecture is approximately 3-5 minutes long and adds additional information and examples to the topic presented in the reading passage.

Independent Writing Task

The Independent Writing Task assesses your ability to write in English on a given topic. The task requires you to express your thoughts, ideas, and opinions coherently and effectively in written form. The task aims to evaluate your ability to organise your thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and develop your ideas with sufficient details and examples.

The Independent Writing Task is a timed exercise, and you will be given 30 minutes to complete it. You will be presented with a prompt or a question, which you will be required to address in your response. The prompt may ask you to express your opinion on a particular issue or to describe a situation, problem or challenge and propose a solution. It is important to read the prompt carefully and understand what it requires you to do before starting to write.

Also read: TOEFL Exam Pattern

Prompt: Some people believe that it is better to live in a small town, while others think that life in a big city is more preferable. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each perspective and give your own opinion.

Living in a small town versus a big city has been a topic of debate for a long time. Some people prefer the peace and quiet of small towns, while others thrive in the hustle and bustle of big cities. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each perspective and provide my own opinion.

Living in a small town has its advantages. First of all, it is generally quieter and more peaceful than living in a big city. There is less noise pollution, less traffic, and fewer crowds. Additionally, small towns are often safer than big cities, with lower crime rates and a stronger sense of community. People in small towns tend to know each other better and are more likely to look out for one another.

However, small towns also have their disadvantages. They can be isolated and lacking in opportunities, particularly when it comes to education and employment. Small towns may not have access to the same resources as big cities, which can make it harder to pursue certain careers or receive a top-notch education. Additionally, small towns can sometimes feel claustrophobic, with everyone knowing everyone else's business and limited options for socialising or entertainment.

Living in a big city, on the other hand, has its own set of advantages. Big cities are often cultural hubs, with access to museums, theatres, concerts, and other forms of entertainment. They also offer more diverse dining options and a wider range of shopping opportunities. In terms of education and employment, big cities often have more options available, with top-notch universities and a greater number of job openings.

However, big cities also have their disadvantages. They can be noisy, polluted, and stressful, with crowds and traffic adding to the chaos. Crime rates are often higher in big cities, and there is often a lack of community and a sense of isolation. Additionally, the cost of living in a big city is often much higher than in a small town, which can be a significant barrier for many people.

In my opinion, both small towns and big cities have their advantages and disadvantages, and which one is preferable depends on individual preferences and priorities. While I appreciate the peace and quiet of small towns, I also value the opportunities and diversity of big cities. Ultimately, the choice between living in a small town versus a big city comes down to personal preference and what one prioritises in life.

Also read: TOEFL study material and resources

Tips for writing high-scoring TOEFL essay

Writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay requires effective preparation, practice, and the use of a clear writing structure. Here are some tips to help you write a high-scoring TOEFL essay:

The first step in writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay is to understand the task requirements. Make sure you read the prompt carefully and understand the topic you are being asked to write about. Additionally, make sure you understand the type of essay you need to write. The TOEFL independent writing task requires you to write an essay expressing your opinion or providing your perspective on a given topic.

Once you understand the prompt and the requirements of the task, take a few minutes to plan your essay. Jot down some notes, create an outline, or even brainstorm on paper to organise your thoughts. Make sure you have a clear idea of the main points you want to make and the evidence you will use to support them. Organising your thoughts and creating an outline will help you stay on track and make your essay more coherent.

Paragraphs are the building blocks of your essay. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence that relates to the main idea of the essay. Use supporting evidence and examples to back up your main point in each paragraph. Additionally, make sure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next. Using transition words and phrases can help link ideas and make your essay more cohesive.

One of the keys to writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay is to use specific examples to support your ideas. Use real-life examples, statistics, and facts to back up your argument. This will demonstrate your knowledge of the topic and show that you can think critically. Additionally, using specific examples will make your essay more interesting to read and help you stand out from other test-takers.

Varying your sentence structure can make your essay more interesting and engaging to read. Use short and long sentences, questions, and statements to add variety to your writing. This will help you avoid repetition and make your writing more engaging. However, make sure your sentences are grammatically correct and make sense in the context of your essay.

Using academic vocabulary can make your essay sound more professional and knowledgeable. Use vocabulary that is appropriate for the academic level of the test. Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly complex language. Additionally, make sure you use words correctly and avoid using words that you do not fully understand.

Using correct grammar and punctuation is essential to getting a high score on the TOEFL writing section. Make sure you use correct verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure. Use appropriate punctuation to ensure your writing is clear and easy to read. If you are unsure about a grammar or punctuation rule, look it up or ask a tutor for clarification.

Also Read TOEFL Exam Syllabus

TOEFL writing samples

TOEFL writing samples provide valuable insights into the structure and content expected in the writing section of the exam. These samples showcase both the integrated and independent writing tasks, allowing test-takers to familiarise themselves with the types of prompts and the expected responses. 

Below we have provided three TOEFL writing samples with answers. By analysing and studying these TOEFL sample essays, students can understand the effective use of transitions, supporting evidence, and coherent arguments.

TOEFL essay sample #1

The importance of learning a second language

Learning a second language has become increasingly important in today's globalised world. It offers numerous benefits such as improved cognitive abilities, enhanced cultural understanding, and better job prospects. In this essay, we will explore the advantages of learning a second language and how it can positively impact individuals and society.

Learning a second language has been shown to improve cognitive abilities. It requires mental effort and helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and multitasking skills. Research has shown that bilingual individuals exhibit higher levels of creativity and have improved memory and attention spans.

Furthermore, learning a second language enhances cultural understanding. Language is deeply intertwined with culture, and by learning a second language, individuals gain insights into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This fosters empathy, tolerance, and a broader worldview, enabling individuals to engage and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

In addition, knowing a second language opens up better job prospects. In today's global job market, multilingualism is highly valued. It allows individuals to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and partners from different countries. Employers often seek candidates with language skills, as it demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to engage in cross-cultural interactions. Thus, learning a second language offers advantages in terms of career opportunities and professional growth.

TOEFL essay sample #2

The impact of technology on education

Technology has revolutionised the field of education, transforming the way students learn and teachers teach. In this essay, we will explore the positive impact of technology on education, including increased access to resources, improved engagement, and enhanced learning outcomes.

One significant impact of technology in education is the increased access to resources. Online platforms, digital libraries, and educational apps provide students with vast amounts of educational materials, regardless of their geographical location. Students can access textbooks, research materials, and interactive learning tools, empowering them to explore and learn at their own pace.

Moreover, technology has improved student engagement in the learning process. Multimedia elements such as videos, simulations, and gamification techniques capture students' attention and promote active participation. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Additionally, technology facilitates personalised learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms analyze student performance and provide personalised feedback, allowing for targeted instruction and remediation. Online collaboration tools enable students to work together, fostering teamwork and communication skills. These personalised and collaborative learning experiences contribute to enhanced learning outcomes and student success.

TOEFL essay sample #3

The benefits of exercise for physical and mental health

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health. It offers numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and flexibility, stress reduction, and enhanced mood. In this essay, we will explore the importance of exercise for overall well-being.

Engaging in regular exercise improves physical health. It helps prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Exercise strengthens the cardiovascular system, boosts metabolism, and enhances overall physical fitness. Activities like running, swimming, or weightlifting promote muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Exercise also plays a vital role in stress reduction and mental well-being. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. These endorphins promote feelings of happiness and well-being, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular exercise can also improve sleep quality, increase energy levels, and enhance cognitive function.

Furthermore, exercise provides an opportunity for individuals to unwind, clear their minds, and focus on their physical well-being. It can serve as a form of self-care, allowing individuals to take time for themselves and prioritize their health. Incorporating exercise into one's routine can have a positive impact on their overall mental and emotional state.

In conclusion, regular exercise offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental health. It improves cardiovascular health, increases strength and flexibility, reduces stress, and enhances mood. By incorporating exercise into our daily lives, we can experience improved well-being and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

It is important to understand the requirements of the exam and the characteristics of a high-scoring essay to achieve a high score on the TOEFL writing section. By organizing your thoughts, using specific examples, using clear and concise language, focusing on coherence and cohesion, and proofreading and editing carefully, you can improve your essay writing skills and increase your chances of success on the exam.

What is the format of the TOEFL essay?

The TOEFL essay is a 30-minute written task where you are asked to express and support your opinion on a specific topic. The essay is typically four to five paragraphs long and should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Where can I find sample TOEFL essays to practice with?

You can find sample TOEFL essays in TOEFL preparation books or online. The official TOEFL website also provides sample essays and scoring guides.

How can I prepare for the TOEFL writing section?

To prepare for the TOEFL writing section, you should practice writing essays using sample prompts, develop your grammar and vocabulary skills, and learn how to organize and develop your ideas effectively. You may also want to work.

How to write a TOEFL essay?

To write a TOEFL essay, it is important to understand the prompt, brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and then write a well-structured essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Practice organising your thoughts and expressing them clearly within the time limit provided.

Is 27 a good writing score in TOEFL?

Yes, a score of 27 is considered a good writing score in TOEFL. It demonstrates a high level of proficiency in writing and indicates strong language skills, coherence, and clarity in expressing ideas.

What is the TOEFL essay format?

The TOEFL essay format consists of an introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction presents the main idea or argument, the body paragraphs provide supporting evidence or examples, and the conclusion summarises the main points and restates the thesis statement.

Is 24 a good TOEFL writing score?

A score of 24 in TOEFL writing is considered a good score. It reflects a strong command of English writing skills, including the ability to organise ideas coherently, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and develop well-structured paragraphs.

Is TOEFL writing difficult?

The difficulty level of TOEFL writing can vary from person to person. It requires strong language skills, critical thinking, and the ability to express ideas clearly within a time constraint.

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13 toefl writing topics to help you practice for the exam.

 On the TOEFL Writing section, you’ll be expected to plan and write two essays. But what are those supposed to be about? What types of TOEFL Writing topics will you see?

In order to be well prepared and confident on test day, you’ll need thorough understanding of the types of TOEFL essay topics you could see on the exam.  This guide gives in-depth explanations of every type of TOEFL Writing topic you might see, how to approach different types of prompts, and what your essays are expected to include. We end with a set of 13 unique sample essay prompts, including both TOEFL Independent Writing prompts and Integrated Writing prompts so that you can prepare with high-quality practice problems.

An Introduction to the TOEFL Writing Topics

The TOEFL Writing section is 50 minutes long and contains two tasks: Integrated Writing and Independent Writing. It’s the fourth and final section of the exam. After this you’re done! You’ll type both essays on the computer, but you can use scratch paper to jot down notes and plan out your essays.

In the next two sections, we’ll explain the format of the two Writing tasks and give an official sample question, along with an analysis of the common types of topics and strategies for doing well on each task.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Topics

The Integrated Writing task requires you to use listening, reading, and writing skills. For this task, you’ll have three minutes to read a short passage, then you will listen to a short (approximately two-minute long) audio clip of a speaker discussing the same topic the written passage covers.  You’ll need to write an essay that references both of these sources in order to answer the question. You won’t discuss your own opinion for this essay.

During the writing time, you’ll be able to look at the written passage again, but you won’t be able to re-hear the audio clip. You’ll be able to take notes while you listen to it though.

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• Writing Time: 20 minutes
• Suggested Essay Length: 150-225 words

Official Integrated Writing Prompt Sample

Reading Time: 3 minutes

In an effort to encourage ecologically sustainable forestry practices, an international organization started issuing certificates to wood companies that meet high ecological standards by conserving resources and recycling materials. Companies that receive this certification can attract customers by advertising their products as “ecocertified.” However, it is unlikely that wood companies in the United States will do the same, for several reasons.

First, American consumers are exposed to so much advertising that they would not value or even pay attention to the ecocertification label. Because so many mediocre products are labelled as “new” or “improved,” American consumers do not place much trust in advertising claims in general.

Second, ecocertified wood will be more expensive than uncertified wood because in order to earn ecocertification, a wood company must pay to have its business examined by a certification agency. This additional cost gets passed on to consumers. American consumers tend to be strongly motivated by price, and therefore they are likely to choose cheaper uncertified wood products. Accordingly, American wood companies will prefer to keep their prices low rather than obtain ecocertification.

Third, although some people claim that it always makes good business sense for American companies to keep up with the developments in the rest of the world, this argument is not convincing. Pursuing certification would make sense for American wood companies only if they marketed most of their products abroad. But this is not the case– American wood businesses sell most of their products in the United States, catering to a very large customer base that is satisfied with the merchandise.

Directions: Below is the transcript.

Narrator: Now listen to part of a lecture on the topic you just read about.

Professor: Well, despite what many people say, there’s good reason to think that many American wood companies will eventually seek ecocertification for their wood products. First off, consumers in the United States don’t treat all advertising the same. They distinguish between advertising claims that companies make about their own products and claims made by independent certification agencies. Americans have a lot of confidence in independent consumer agencies. Thus, ecologically minded Americans are likely to react very favorably to wood products ecologically certified  by an independent organization with an international reputation for trustworthiness.

Second point–of course it’s true that American consumers care a lot about price– who doesn’t? But studies of how consumers make decisions show that price alone determines consumers’ decisions only when the price of one competing product is much higher or lower than another. When the price difference between the two products is small–say, less than five percent, as is the case with certified wood– Americans often do choose on factors other than price. And Americans are becoming increasingly convinced of the value of preserving and protecting the environment.

And third, US wood companies should definitely pay attention to what’s going on in the wood business internationally, not because of foreign consumers, but because of foreign competition. As I just told you, there’s a good chance that many American consumers will be interested in ecocertified products. And guess what, if American companies are slow at capturing those customers, you can be sure that foreign companies will soon start crowding into the American market, offering ecocertified wood that domestic companies don’t.

Directions: Give yourself 20 minutes to plan and write your response. Your response is judged on the quality of the writing and how well it presents the points in the lecture and their relationship to the reading passage. Typically, an effective response will be 150 to 225 words. You may view the reading passage while you respond.

RESPONSE TIME: 20 minutes

Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on specific points made in the reading passage.

What to Expect From TOEFL Integrated Writing Topics

The written passage and audio recording can be on pretty much any subject, but the good news is that all the prompts for the Integrated Writing Task are pretty similar. They usually ask you to summarize the points made in the lecture and compare/contrast them to points made in the reading passage.

You won’t be discussing your own opinion during this essay, instead you’ll be taking information from both the lecture and reading and analyzing it.

How to Approach the Integrated Writing Task

Before you even begin the essay, you should take good notes on the key points of the reading passage and the audio clip. Your notes should be especially good for the audio clip since you won’t be able to hear it again. Using your notes as reference, your essay should recap each of the main points made in the audio clip. For each point you should clearly describe how it contrasts with or challenges points from the reading passage.

Also, remember to use specific examples to strengthen your essay. Refer back to your notes and the reading passage if need be.  However, don’t just copy portions of the audio clip or passage into your essay; that doesn’t show your English skills. Always rewrite the main ideas in your own words. Again, remember that you shouldn’t be including your own opinion in this essay. Stick only to what the reading passage and audio clip cover.

TOEFL Independent Writing Topics

For the Independent Writing task, you’ll receive a question on a particular topic or issue. You’ll need to write a response to that topic that explains your opinion, and you’ll also need to give reasons and examples that support your opinion.

• Writing Time: 30 minutes
• Suggested Essay Length: At least 300 words

Official Independent Writing Prompt Sample

Directions: Read the question below. Give yourself 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay. Typically, an effective response will contain a minimum of 300 words.

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

Television advertising directed toward young children (aged two to five) should not be allowed.

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

What to Expect From TOEFL Independent Writing Topics

TOEFL Independent Writing topics generally fit into one of three categories. There are example problems for each of these categories in the next section.

Type 1: Agree or Disagree

This is the most common prompt type for the Independent Writing Task, and the sample question above is an example of it. For this type of prompt, you’ll be presented with two sides of an argument. You’ll need to pick one side and give specific reasons and examples that support your opinion.

Type 2: Explain Both Sides

This is similar to the first type of prompt, except you’ll be discussing both sides, rather than choosing one you think is best.  Many times these types of prompts will ask you to compare the advantages and disadvantages of an issue and give examples to support your statements.

If the sample question above followed this type of format, the prompt would be something like this: “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of allowing television advertising to be directed toward young children (aged two to five). Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.”

Type 3: Pick a Stance From Many Options

This category is rarer, but you still may see it on TOEFL Writing. The TOEFL Independent Writing topics give   you a broad topic with many possible opinions and ask for your stance on it.

If the sample question followed this type of format, the prompt would be similar to: “Which age group do you believe the majority of television advertising should be directed towards? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.”

How to Approach the Independent Writing Task

Depending on the type of prompt you receive, you’ll either choose an opinion (from two options or many options) or explain both sides of an issue. For this essay, each paragraph should be devoted to making one main point, and each point should be supported with specific reasons and examples to back it up. If you’re being asked to describe your opinion, make it clear within the first paragraph of your essay. There should be no doubt as to how you feel about the topic.

Also, even though ETS states that a 300-word essay is the “recommended minimum” length for this task, don’t feel like you need to write hundreds of words after you reach the 300 mark in order to get a high score. Longer isn’t always better. It’s very possible (and common) for Independent Writing essays that are only 300 words or slightly longer to receive high scores.

Sample TOEFL Writing Topics

Completing practice essays and becoming more familiar with the types of questions you could be asked is a key part of preparing for TOEFL Writing. There numerous practice TOEFL questions available , but you’ll likely want more to practice with.

To help you out, we’ve come up with 13  practice TOEFL Writing topics for both the Integrated and Independent Writing Tasks.  Remember that on the real exam the conversations for the Integrated Writing Tasks would be audio recordings that you’d be listening to as opposed to reading.

TOEFL Independent Writing Topics

#1: agree or disagree prompt.

• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? When people solve problems as a group, they come up with better solutions that if they were to try to solve the problem individually. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? All children should be required to take a foreign language class from the time they start school until they begin university. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Technology has made it easier for people to connect on a deeper level. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Some people believe school cafeterias should stop selling soft drinks and other high-sugar drinks, while others think students should have a choice in what they drink. Which option do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

#2: Explain Both Sides Prompt

• Some high school students are delaying college for a year in order to take a gap year where pursue other opportunities such as work or travel. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of gap years. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Compare the advantages and disadvantages of requiring college freshman to complete at least a year of college classes before selecting a major versus having them choose right away. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a large city versus living in a small town. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• Compare the advantages and disadvantages of studying on your own versus studying with a group of people. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

#3: Pick a Stance From Many Options

• Imagine that there is a large piece of vacant land in your town. What is the best way to make use of it? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• What do you believe is the most important problem facing the world today? Why is it the most important? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
• If you could learn one new skill you’ve never had the opportunity to try before, what skill would it be? Explain your choice by using specific reasons and examples.
• What are the main qualities of a good boss? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Topic

Directions: Read the following passage and the lecture that follows. On the real TOEFL, you’ll have three minutes to read the passage. Then, answer the question below.

Reading Passage

Driverless cars are increasingly being seen as the way of the future. They will eliminate many of the hassles and dangers associated with traditional driving and pave the way for this new technology to become commonplace.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of driverless cars is that they will drastically cut down on human error that results in millions of people being injured or killed every year in car accidents. Driverless cars won’t forget to notice a stop sign, get distracted while texting, not notice the car up ahead has slowed down, or any other of a myriad of driver errors that occur every day. Once driverless cars become commonplace on our roads, thousands of lives will be saved a year.

Another benefit is that driverless cars will cut down on driving time and make commutes shorter. Cars with automated driving will travel at a more consistent and efficient rate than cars with human drivers, who tend to use the brake and gas pedals more often than necessary. Driverless cars know the exact speed to go in order to get to the destination as quickly as possible, based on speed limits, traffic, and other conditions, and the more driverless cars there are on the road, the more travel time will be reduced.

Finally, driverless cars allow people who would normally be driving to focus their attention on a task that’s more interesting and important to them. They may choose to check their emails, get absorbed in an audiobook or podcast, or enjoy a snack, among other possibilities. Having a driverless car will help former drivers make better use of their time.

Lecture Transcript

Professor: Despite the recent attention this subject has gotten in the news and on social media, driverless cars are not the world-changing technology they are being advertised as. They have significant drawbacks, and even if those are ironed out, they will still not offer all the benefits that they are advertising. First and foremost, even if every car on the street became driverless, that does not mean automobile accidents would suddenly end. Automated driving technology, like all technology can and will fail at times. In fact, even though there are few driverless cars currently on the road, they have already been associated with multiple accidents, injuries, and deaths. Automated driving will always be an imperfect technology, and it will also lack the human mind’s ability to analyze a situation and make split-second decisions which are often necessary to avoid accidents.

Another falsehood is the belief that driverless cars will make commutes significantly shorter. Driverless cars may be able to reduce a lot of the speed up/hit the brakes patterns human drivers engage in, however, driverless cars cannot do anything to change speed limits, road conditions, traffic, or other factors that contribute to commute times. As such, any reductions in driving times will be small, at best.

And third, many people believe that, with driverless cars, drivers won’t need to pay attention to the road at all. They’ll be free to watch a movie or read a book while driving! However, this is completely false. The person sitting in the driver’s seat of an automated driving vehicle will still need to pay attention to the road at all times in order to be alert for any situations where they need to override the automated driving technology. This means that, not only will driverless cars mean drivers can do something else while in the car, they’ll have to suffer through the boredom of passively watching their car make all the decisions without taking their eyes off the road.

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Review: What Will You See on TOEFL Writing Topics?

Knowing what to expect from the TOEFL essay topics will go a long way towards helping you write high-scoring essays. There are two essays on this section, the Integrated Writing Task and the Independent Writing Task. Integrated Writing topics provide you with an article to read and a lecture or conversation to listen to and then ask you to combine information from the two. TOEFL Independent Writing topics simply give you an idea or theory and ask for your perspective on it.

Completing practice essays will help you become better at understanding and answering TOEFL Writing topics. You should practice writing appropriately long responses that clearly outline your thoughts and support them with specific details.

What’s Next?

Looking for more information on the TOEFL Writing section? Learn all the tips you need to know in order to ace TOEFL Writing!

Want more tips on how to prepare for TOEFL Writing questions? Check out our guide to the best ways to practice for TOEFL Writing!

Looking for a great TOEFL prep book?  A good prep book can be the most important study tool you use, and we have information on all the best TOEFL prep books you should consider.

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Author: Christine Sarikas

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries. View all posts by Christine Sarikas

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Latest TOEFL Independent Writing Topics: Syllabus, Question Types & More

The TOEFL Independent Writing section challenges test-takers to express their thoughts clearly and effectively on a variety of topics. In this section, you will encounter prompts that require you to present and support your opinion, making it crucial to practice and familiarize yourself with common TOEFL Independent Writing topics . This guide provides a comprehensive list of these topics, along with tips and strategies to help you craft strong, coherent essays that meet the expectations of the examiners. Whether you’re aiming for a high score or simply looking to improve your writing skills, mastering these topics is essential for success on the TOEFL.

TOEFL Independent Writing Task

Table of Content

• TOEFL Independent Writing Task Syllabus 
• TOEFL Writing Independent Question Types 

TOEFL Independent Writing Topics 

• TOEFL Independent Writing Tips 

TOEFL Independent Writing Task Format

How to structure your response, practice exercise with sample response, common mistakes to avoid, toefl independent writing task- faqs, toefl independent writing task syllabus  .

Candidates are required to complete an essay expressing their viewpoint within a 30-minute timeframe for the TOEFL independent writing task. Unlike the integrated writing task, this segment does not involve any reading passages or recordings.

In the TOEFL independent writing task, candidates are prompted to either agree or disagree with a given statement, or to support or oppose an idea. They must furnish relevant evidence or opinions to address the TOEFL independent writing topics effectively. Scores for this task range from 0 to 5, with the raw score being converted to a scaled TOEFL score ranging from 0 to 30. The TOEFL writing score encompasses both the independent and integrated tasks.

TOEFL Writing Independent Question Types  

The TOEFL independent writing task encompasses four primary question types, each requiring a distinct approach:

• Agree or Disagree (65% weightage): In this type, candidates articulate their stance on a given subject, providing logical reasoning and relevant examples to support their viewpoint. Accessing TOEFL independent writing sample essays online can aid in comprehending this question type.
• Multiple Choice Type questions (15% weightage): Candidates are presented with a scenario and several options, from which they select one and construct an independent essay elucidating their support for that particular idea. Familiarizing oneself with TOEFL independent writing essay samples can facilitate understanding of this question format.
• Preference Type of questions (15% weightage): Here, candidates are offered two or more situations and are tasked with explaining their preference. Their rationale and examples should effectively bolster their chosen stance. TOEFL independent writing sample essays are valuable resources for honing skills in this area.
• Good Idea (Rarely comes): This type of question prompts candidates to assess whether they perceive a given idea as good or bad. Subsequently, they must craft an essay outlining their reasons for supporting their chosen answer.

Each question type demands a nuanced approach, and practicing with TOEFL independent writing topics and sample essays can enhance candidates’ proficiency in addressing them effectively.

TOEFL Independent Writing Tips  

Here are some TOEFL preparation pointers tailored for the independent writing section:

• Regularly practice timed TOEFL practice tests to maintain a suitable pace. This ensures candidates are adept at planning, writing, and revising within the 30-minute timeframe.
• Focus on crafting a concise, factual, and coherent paragraph. Quality over quantity is key; a well-structured paragraph can earn a score of 4 or 5, while a lengthy but irrelevant essay may not fare as well.
• Utilize vocabulary that you’re comfortable with to construct your own sentences. Examiners appreciate a varied range of vocabulary and sentence structures.
• Formulate opinions on various topics, even if you have to “fake it.” Staying informed about current events helps cover the latest issues likely to appear in the exam.
• Practice with time constraints to simulate exam conditions effectively.
• Pay attention to the spelling of words you intend to use in your TOEFL independent writing.
• Ensure that your essay demonstrates grammatical accuracy in words, idioms, phrases, and sentence structures.
• Avoid introducing irrelevant arguments or logic that may confuse the examiner, a principle also applicable in TOEFL integrated writing practice questions.
• Keep your response concise; avoid unnecessary lengthiness that could dilute the clarity and coherence of your essay.

The TOEFL Independent Writing Task presents test takers with a specific prompt or question and requires them to formulate and support their argument or opinion on the given topic. Understanding the format and requirements of this task is essential for effectively tackling it on test day:

The Independent Writing Task prompt typically presents a controversial issue, a general statement, or a question related to a specific topic. Test takers are required to respond to this prompt by expressing their viewpoint or perspective.

Response Format

Test takers are expected to write an essay in response to the prompt. The essay should be well-structured, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the argument or opinion being presented.

The time allotted for completing the Independent Writing Task is usually 30 minutes. Within this timeframe, test takers need to plan, write, and revise their essays efficiently.

While there is no strict word limit for the Independent Writing Task, test takers are advised to aim for an essay length of approximately 300-400 words. Writing too little may result in an incomplete response, while writing too much may lead to lack of time for revision.

Scoring Criteria

Essays are evaluated based on several criteria, including the clarity and coherence of the argument, the relevance and quality of supporting examples and details, the organization and structure of the essay, and the command of English language conventions.

Use of Examples

Providing relevant examples and details to support the main argument is crucial in the Independent Writing Task. Test takers are encouraged to draw from personal experiences, observations, or general knowledge to strengthen their arguments.

Language Proficiency

Showing a strong command of English language conventions, including grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure, is essential for achieving a high score on the Independent Writing Task.

Structuring your response effectively is crucial for achieving a high score on the TOEFL Independent Writing Task. Here’s a breakdown of how to structure your response into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion:

1. Introduction

• Hook: Begin with an engaging opening sentence to grab the reader’s attention and introduce the topic. This could be a thought-provoking question, a startling statistic, or a relevant quotation.
• Thesis Statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. This should be a concise sentence that outlines the stance you will be defending throughout your essay.
• Overview: Provide a brief overview of the main points you will be discussing in the body paragraphs. This gives the reader a roadmap of your essay and sets the stage for what’s to come.

2. Body Paragraphs

• Topic Sentence : Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main point or argument of that paragraph.
• Supporting Evidence : Provide specific examples, reasons, or details to support your argument. These could include personal experiences, real-life examples, or hypothetical scenarios.
• Explanation: After presenting your evidence, explain how it relates to your main argument and why it supports your position. This helps to clarify your reasoning and strengthen your argument.
• Transition: Use transitional phrases or sentences to smoothly transition between paragraphs and ensure a logical flow of ideas throughout your essay.

3. Conclusion

• Restate Thesis: Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis statement, but do so in a slightly different way to avoid redundancy.
• Summarize Main Points : Summarize the main points you made in the body paragraphs, highlighting the key arguments and evidence that support your position.
• Closing Statement : End with a concluding statement that reinforces the significance of your argument or offers a final thought on the topic. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a suggestion for further exploration.
• Closure: Provide a sense of closure by tying your conclusion back to your introduction or by offering a final thought that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Here is a practice exercise for the TOEFL Independent Writing Task along with sample response:

Practice Exercise

Prompt: Some people believe that it’s better to live in a small town, while others argue that life in a big city offers more opportunities. Which do you prefer and why?

Sample Response Living in a small town versus a big city is a topic that often sparks debate. Personally, I prefer the charm and peace of small towns over the hustle and bustle of big cities. While cities may offer more opportunities in terms of career advancement and cultural activities, small towns provide a sense of community and a slower pace of life that I find appealing. In small towns, people tend to know each other, promoting a strong sense of belonging and support. This close-knit community allows for meaningful connections and a sense of security that can be lacking in large urban centers. Additionally, small towns often have beautiful surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment away from the chaos of city life. Although big cities offer a lot of job prospects and entertainment options, they also come with challenges such as traffic congestion, high living costs, and increased competition. Moreover, the fast-paced lifestyle of cities can lead to feelings of isolation and stress, making it difficult to find balance and happiness. In conclusion, while big cities may offer more opportunities on paper, the quality of life and sense of community found in small towns outweigh the benefits of urban living for me. Ultimately, the choice between living in a small town or a big city depends on individual preferences and priorities, but for me, the charm and serenity of small-town living hold greater appeal.

Avoiding common mistakes is crucial for performing well on the TOEFL Independent Writing Task. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

Lack of Clear Thesis Statement

Failing to clearly state your main argument or position in the introduction can weaken the coherence and persuasiveness of your essay. Make sure your thesis statement is concise and clearly articulates your stance on the topic.

Insufficient Development of Ideas

Providing shallow or underdeveloped arguments without sufficient supporting evidence can undermine the strength of your essay. Take the time to elaborate on your ideas, provide relevant examples, and explain how they support your main argument.

Inadequate Organization

Poor organization can make your essay difficult to follow and diminish its overall impact. Ensure that your essay has a logical structure with well-defined paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of your argument. Use transitional phrases or sentences to guide the reader through your essay smoothly.

Limited Vocabulary and Sentence Variety

Using repetitive language and simplistic sentence structures can detract from the sophistication of your writing. Make an effort to incorporate a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency and enhance the clarity and richness of your writing.

Grammatical Errors

Grammatical mistakes can detract from the clarity and credibility of your essay. Review your writing carefully for errors in subject-verb agreement , verb tense consistency, word order, and punctuation. Pay particular attention to common grammatical pitfalls for non-native English speakers.

In conclusion, knowing the TOEFL Independent Writing Task is essential to doing well on the test and in the future. You may write an engaging and convincing essay by properly organizing your response, making solid points that are supported by relevant examples, and showing your command of language standards. Also, the abilities acquired by the completion of the Independent Writing Task—such as logical reasoning, critical thinking, and effective communication—are extremely relevant in both academic and professional settings.

Also Check: TOEFL Exam 2024: Fees, Syllabus, Dates, Registration & More TOEFL Exam Pattern 2024: Check Question Types & Scores TOEFL Exam Registration 2024: Check Dates, Fees, Processes, Centres & More

What is the TOEFL Independent Writing Task?

The Independent Writing Task is a section of the TOEFL exam where test takers are required to write an essay expressing their own opinion on a given topic.

How much time do I have for the Independent Writing Task?

You have 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay for the Independent Writing Task.

Is there a word limit for the Independent Writing Task?

There is no strict word limit, but aiming for around 300-400 words is recommended to ensure thorough development of ideas within the time limit.

Can I use personal examples in my essay for the Independent Writing Task?

Yes, incorporating personal experiences or examples can strengthen your argument and make your essay more persuasive.

How is the Independent Writing Task scored?

Essays are evaluated based on factors such as clarity of ideas, coherence and organization, use of examples, and language proficiency, with scores ranging from 0 to 5.

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Speaker 1: Today, I'm going to talk to you about 25 academic words that you should know. Now before I blow your mind with these academic words, I want to remind you to join our social media classes. It is a great way to practice your English. So in this lesson, I am going to go over 25 academic words with you. Which is very important if you are in university, or if you are going to attend university, or maybe if you're going to take the IELTS or TOEFL exam. Or if you're just in some sort of job that requires some more academic vocabulary, this lesson will help. The words that I'm going to be talking to you about today come from the academic word list. It is a list of the most common academic vocabulary words used in English. So I'm going to give you the word, it's part of speech, its meaning, as well as an example sentence so you can see how it's used in context. And if possible, maybe I'll throw in a picture or two so we can spice things up a bit. Keep in mind, some of these words have more than one meaning. But in today's lesson, I'm just going to go over the more popular use of these academic words. Also, in order to expand your vocabulary, I would highly recommend learning the words in the word family. It is really going to help build your vocabulary. So for example, we have the verb decide. If it's a noun, it's decision. And then the adjective is decisive. They all have similar meanings, but they're different words depending on the part of speech. But if you're able to learn all of the words in the word family, it'll really help you build your vocabulary and become more proficient in English. Okay, so let's begin. I just put these words in alphabetical order. They're not really ordered by importance or anything. You should learn all of them. So let's begin, but before we do, I need to free up a little space around here, so... Okay, I think that's a little better. It gives us a little more room to go over these words. The first word is alternative. So this just means an additional choice or a possible or remaining choice. So for example, you might hear people say... We have no additional choice. We have to do this or we have to do that. You could also say... That taking the bus was the additional choice. It wasn't the first choice. It is the alternative. Taking the bus. Number two is assessment. And this is just an evaluation of something. Some of you may be familiar with it because you might hear it in school where they want to do some sort of an evaluation and give you an assessment. And most of us probably don't like assessments. But we can use it in a sentence and say... They want to do an assessment of the business operations. They wanted to evaluate it. And maybe they go through their checklist and do an assessment and see how the operations are functioning. Number three is benefit. And benefit means something that is good or something that is advantageous. So this is a good thing when you have a benefit. And we can use it in a sentence and say... And that benefit might be... She gets to fly for free. That is a benefit. It's a good situation. Who doesn't want to fly for free? Number four is complex. Now if something is complex, it just means it has many different connected parts that are unique. And they are twisted and tied together and may be very difficult to understand. So a few words that this is often used with is maybe a complex situation. Or a complex problem. Or maybe there's a complex issue. These are some words that complex is often used to describe. We could then use it in a sentence and say... If you're a doctor and doing surgery, that is not simple. It's probably pretty complex. Number five is the word concept. Now a concept is an idea about something that you form in your mind. So say that you are thinking of something new and different. And you come up with a concept to try to explain that idea and show other people. Let's use it in a sentence and say... We might not be exactly sure how we're going to do it. But we need to come up with different ideas about how this can be done. And think about what it can be like, which makes it an interesting concept. Number six is a very important word. And this just means the end or close. This is important in academic writing or if you're giving a presentation. Because you will frequently hear the words... Which tells people like, okay, this is the end. This is the final result. What is the end or the close? In conclusion, they kicked me out of the bar. Who knows? Maybe I had too much to drink. Maybe I was just singing karaoke really, really badly. In conclusion, they kicked me out. Number seven is conduct. And this means to organize or lead an activity. Don't confuse it with the noun conduct, which means somebody's behavior. This is the verb conduct. The stress is on the second syllable. Now there are many different things that we can conduct. But some of the more common ones are... These are common ways that we can use the verb conduct. So for example, we could also say... He leads these science experiments. He does these science experiments. He conducts these science experiments. And hopefully they're safe and nothing explodes. Number eight is consistent. Now this just means not moving away from principles or not being contradictory. So for example, we could say that... Maybe there is a good student and a bad student. And they both cheat on an exam. And the rule says if you cheat, then you will be punished. So the teacher punishes both of them and not just the bad student. Which means the rules apply to everyone and not just some. The teacher is consistent. Number nine is context. Now this is just a statement that can either be written or spoken. And surrounds a specific word or phrase. I tell students all the time try to understand the meaning of a word by putting it in context. If you can understand what's being said at the beginning and what's being said at the end, then you probably can guess what this one word or phrase means. So for example, maybe we have a passage that reads... Dark clouds covered the sky. It was a perilous journey and no one returned. Well, if I don't know what the word perilous means, I can put it in context. Dark clouds. No one returned. Well, these are bad things. So maybe perilous means something that is dangerous or even life-threatening. We can put it in context. Number ten is coordination. This is just a combination of parts or people that are working together. We must have coordination if we're going to succeed. There was no coordination between the two groups and nobody knew what was happening. If there's no coordination, then that's not good. Number eleven is environment. And this is the condition of your surroundings. And those surroundings could be geography, could be society, could even be your mood. It is the condition of those surroundings, your environment. I wouldn't want to be in that meeting. Number twelve, estimate. To estimate is a verb that means to make an approximate guess or judgment. So we could say... Which is pretty good. Number thirteen is factor. And a factor is just something that contributes to a particular result. So we can say... And those factors might be poverty, could be police presence, or maybe even cleanliness. There are several factors. Number fourteen, function. This is the purpose for which something is designed. What is its function? What is its purpose? For example, we could say... And who knows? Perhaps it has other functions as well. Finding hotels. Finding rental cars. It might have several functions. Number fifteen, identified. And this just means to recognize something or someone. Commonly, it's used in the past tense. And it is followed by a direct object. We identified something. For example, we identified three different factors that hurt the environment. What did we identify? We identified something. The three different factors. Number sixteen, impact. An impact is the strong effect or influence that something has on a situation or on a person. And a common question that you might hear about something is... How is this going to affect the situation or the person? What is the impact? Number seventeen is indicate. And to indicate is just to point out or show something. For example, we could say that... What do they indicate? What do they show us? They indicate that people are unhappy. Number eighteen, investment. And investment is the use of money or capital to receive a profit or an appreciation in value. And there are all sorts of investments that we can make. So for example, buying a home can be a wise investment. Well, maybe not this home. But yeah, yeah, this one is more like it. This is probably a good investment. Number nineteen is major. And major is just an adjective used to describe that something is greater in size, extent, or importance. And it is often associated with something that is like bad news. For example, we could say... Or even... Number twenty, method. Method is a technique, plan, or way of doing something. Especially when there is a plan in place. So it's something that you tend to think out beforehand. What is the method that we are going to use? For example, we use the scientific method to acquire new knowledge. Observation, experiment, evaluation, and confirmation. The scientific method. Number twenty-one is occur. And this is something that happens or takes place. So for example, we can say that the event only occurs in winter. That is when it happens and takes place. It occurs in winter. Number twenty-two is potential. And this is something that could possibly happen, but maybe it might not come to pass. It has potential. For example, he is a terrific athlete and he has the potential to win the race. So it is something that is likely to happen, but it might not come to pass. He has potential because he's a good athlete. Number twenty-three is primary. And primary just means the first of importance. And there are a couple of synonyms for primary such as chief or principal. But it just means the first of importance. So for example, we could say... The primary cause of failure was the lack of organization. There were other things, but this was the primary cause. Number twenty-four is range. Now this is the upper and lower limits between which a number, an amount, or type of something may vary. So for example, we could say our price range is between two thousand and four thousand dollars. So two thousand is the lower limit. Four thousand is the upper limit. And anywhere between, that is our range. Number twenty-five is significant. It is an adjective that means something of importance or something of consequence. So for example, we could say... And that is true. If you're watching this lesson and you were studying these words, that will be significant. And if you'd like to learn more about this word and the words in the word family, we did a video lesson on significant right there. So there you have it. Those are twenty-five academic words that you should know, that you should study, and that you should practice. And again, I would recommend learning the other words in the word family. If you like this lesson and you learned something new, hit that thumbs up button. And also remember to subscribe to our channel for more video lessons on how you can practice and improve your English. Thanks for watching. We hope you enjoyed this vocabulary lesson and learned some new words. We'll see you next time. And that is true. If you learn these words, it will be significant. Okay. I forget what I was going to say.

Test Resources

TOEFL® Resources by Michael Goodine

Sample toefl agree/disagree essay – widespread use of the internet.

The Question

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “Overall, the widespread use of the internet has a mostly positive effect on life in today’s world.” Use reasons and details to support your opinion.

This essay follows our TOEFL Writing templates for independent essays.  Note that we have many more sample essays  for you to read.

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The Sample Essay

          Most people agree that modern technology affects society in many different ways.  In my opinion, access to the Internet is enormously beneficial to both individuals and communities as a whole.  I feel this way for two reasons, which I will explore in the following essay.

           To begin with, online investigative reporting helps to expose political corruption and keep politicians honest.  In the past, there were only a limited number of news outlets, which often had deep connections to powerful politicians. As a result, they were extremely hesitant to criticize them. These days, however, there are many independent publications on the Internet that are willing to expose political misbehavior.  For example, an online magazine recently published a story revealing that the mayor of my hometown had taken bribes from a property developer. The report was so detailed and well-researched that the mayor had no choice but to resign. Although the evidence was not difficult to locate, only this independent website was willing to write about it.  This example demonstrates how the Internet helps to strengthen democracy in the modern world.

           Secondly, people are more motivated than ever to become politically active because they can freely exchange ideas online.  In countries all over the globe, people use social networking services to share their ideas and opinions. While in the past people might have thought that they were alone in their beliefs, today they realize that others share their ideas. My own experience demonstrates this concept.  When I was a university student, I learned that a municipal park near my apartment was going to be demolished to make room for a massive parking lot. This bothered me a lot because I enjoyed spending my free time in the park. At first I thought that there was nothing that I, as an individual, could do to stop this from happening.  However, I later joined a Facebook group dedicated to opposing the plan. When the members of the group learned how many people in the city loved the park we were happy to get together and enthusiastically protest in front of city hall until our voices were heard. I am convinced that finding each other on that social networking platform gave us the courage to actively protect our park.

           In conclusion, I strongly believe that the Internet has a positive effect on our lives.  This is because online journalism strengthens our democracy, and because social networking sites encourage people to  get involved in local politics. (411 words)

This essay was featured in a video lecture in 2019.

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